by Sheriff Colton Havard
Child Endangerment Arrest:
On March 10, 2025, deputies initiated an investigation after an infant tested positive for multiple controlled substances at birth. Following interviews and collaboration with the Department of Family and Protective Services, a warrant was issued. On May 10, 2025, Gayla Caldwell was arrested for abandonment/endangerment of a child and booked into the Newton County Jail.
Repairs made to the Newton County Jail:
We have been in the process of trying to get our jail doors repaired to be able to achieve the maximum capacity of our jail. These repairs will help the facility return to maximum capacity and hopefully save us money on housing inmates in other counties. I would like to show my appreciation to the commissioner’s court for their support in this project.
Scam Alert:
Multiple residents have reported scam calls threatening arrest unless payment is made for a warrant. I would like to remind the public that we do not notify individuals of warrants by phone—these matters are handled in person.
Calls for Service:
We answered 75 calls for service last week and booked 10 individuals into the Newton County Jail. We currently have inmates housed in the following jails: 10 in Jasper, 3 in Beauregard Parish and 12 in Newton.
Thought for the week:
Common sense is a flower that does not grow in everyone’s garden.
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